Beatrice Kateme-Byakika shares alluring soulful ballad, ‘Sweetness’

Based in London, with roots in Kenya and Uganda, BEATRICE KATEME-BYAKIKA writes heartfelt songs about life, love and all the bittersweet spaces in between. Simple yet deep, the soul songstress’ past compositions creates a open space for true introspection, imagination and wonder.

Her latest single, ‘Sweetness’ adds to the her extensive discography of pure escapism. The alluring piano keys, immediately joined by the soulful backdrop and Beatrice’s titillating vocals, serves as smooth invitation for two lovers to ignite a life of pure and endless passion.

A seasoned artist with a career spanning over more than a decade, Beatrice had a first break with the song ‘Nilizaliwa’, which was featured on BBC by the late Charlie Gillett which solidified her place as a songwriter. Her debut album, ‘Coming Home’ – a 2008 tribute to her multicultural heritage – became the spark that ignited several other projects, including the 2014 album, ‘Naked’ under the moniker Carmine Rose. In these releases you can hear echoes of East African and world music blending with classic pop and R&B, occasionally taking centre-stage when the artist sings in different dialects.

In spite of the recent global adversities and much to the pleasure of her growing fanbase, Beatrice released several singles in 2020. Amongst them was ‘Slow Down’, a duet with fellow diaspora artist Gizzy Manora, which received radio play both in Europe and North America. With a newfound creative drive and backed by a prolific relationship with producer Ivan Anchant, she is continuing on a path of artistic development and sharing new music in 2023.

‘Sweetness’ was released from 4th November via various music platforms . Will you allow yourself to indulge in this treat?

OUT TODAY: Listen to RubyGold x Ctt Beats’ single, ‘Spark It Up’

‘Spark It Up’ is the dreamy new single from RUBYGOLD and CTT BEATS. The single incorporates some smooth neo-soul vibes to their Afro Pop trademark. The accompanied music video portrays a dreamy relaxed day that signifies Ruby’s beautiful relaxed and charming manner.

Commenting on the release, Mark Insley of CTT Beats says “RubyGold has just got it! There is something very special about her and her work that she is putting out with us. She is also one of the most professional artists we have worked with making the experience of collaboration even more enjoyable. She is back and here to stay in South African music lovers’ ears”.

‘Spark It Up’ was released today across various music platforms…why not check out the video to the memersing single…

Song of the Day: Postcards – Frex

LA-based alt-R&B trailblazer FREX returns with her latest single ‘Postcards’, released via Island Records. Textured, intimate and self-reflective; ‘Postcards’ is a delicate diary entry that sees her reminiscing over a fading relationship while deciding whether to move on and give up hope on it ever getting better.

Speaking on the single, frex said: “I wanted to keep being vulnerable during my process. Before you decide to move on, you’re deciding whether or not to give up all hope. Even though it’s a bad situation, you’re reminiscing.”

Known for her unique melodies and candid storytelling, frex is an artist to watch that is carving her own path and putting human connection at the forefront of her genre-blending artistry. Pulling inspiration from R&B, pop, jazz, classic rock, and more, frex uses her music to process her feelings and experiences, and push boundaries with the hope that her artistry helps others embrace their own vulnerability and overcome what they’re going through. Raised in a small town in Pennsylvania and now residing in LA, the rising talent is ready to bring her sound to a global stage.

The new single arrives on the heels of ‘Hoodie Back,’ an unbothered vibe that flips the script on the classic story of someone keeping a memento following the end of a relationship. Speaking to frex’s unique perspective on love and allowing yourself to be broken-hearted but not a victim with lyrics that cut deep, ‘Hoodie Back’ received acclaim from Billboard (calling her their “freshest find”), UPROXX, and more. The song followed frex’s breakthrough, viral hit ‘Oxford Circus’ – which debuted in the Spotify Viral 50 upon release and has racked up over 17 million streams on Spotify alone – and recent single ‘Forever Thing,’ a dreamy, breathy confession whose synths murmur through a glitchy beat which heralded her new chapter.

frex is fresh from supporting Alina Baraz on her US tour this Autumn and made her UK live debut this summer performing at All Points East Festival and a headline show at London’s ‘Folklore’, with support from the likes of Spotify, Billboard, Wordplay Magazine and more – stay tuned for more from this bubbling talent. but for now, listen to ‘Postcards’…

Elif Dame shares beautifully honest single, ‘Celexa (Buy Me Time)’

Taken from her new EP, ‘Securely Detached’ ELIF DAME‘s latest single ‘Celexa (Buy Me Time)’ sees the Amsterdam-based singer/songwriter opens up about hitting rock bottom and weighing up the options of going on medication.

Released 27th october across various music platforms, ‘Securely Detached’ also features songs such as ‘How to Self-Care’ and ‘Self-Care Pt. II’ where Dame admits to not being able to fulfill her primary needs as a basic means of maintaining her stability and consequently facing a never ending cycle of healing and self-sabotage. Singles ‘Grandmothers Fault’ and ‘Good Friend’ both of which speak about the songwriters struggles with unhealthy relationships in her life, as well as ‘Nature of the Beast’ where the artist realizes that addiction is a family disease.

Having garnered nearly half a million streams for her debut single, Elif Dame (meaning she who brings light) is heading in the right direction, with the EP setting to take her to new heights, as she connects with listeners around the world with her beautifully honest and vulnerable music. Have a listen to ‘Celexa (Buy Me Time)’ below…

R&B Soultress Tai Mistyque unveils new EP, ‘Head Over Heart’

Rising singer-songwriter TAI MISTYQUE has unveiled her brand new album, ‘Head Over Heart,’ a powerful and emotive collection of songs that highlight the profound process of growing up and seeing the world through the lens of emotional sensitivity.

‘Head Over Heart’ presents a heartfelt narrative of Tai’s personal journey, a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns that challenged everything she knew of the world. The album not only delves into the impact of heartbreak but also explores the complexities of why cherished friendships may fall apart.

Through her music, Tai Mistyque invites listeners to shed their rose-colored glasses and confront the world with love, as it truly is. The album encourages the mind and heart to work in harmony, fostering a deeper understanding of the intricacies of life. The music and lyrics explore the essence of vulnerability, the significance of establishing boundaries, and the beauty of personal epiphanies that can shape one’s journey.

This album speaks directly to a specific audience: young women who are in the process of discovering their self-worth. Serving as a handbook for life, ‘Head Over Heart’ provides invaluable insights into the trials and tribulations that women may face as they navigate the world. Tai steps into a “big sis” role, offering guidance and reassurance. ‘Head Over Heart’ captures that pivotal moment in life when individuals learn to collaborate with their hearts while wearing the armor of self-protection. It underscores the possibility of finding happiness, maintaining loving relationships, and safeguarding oneself in a world that can be both beautiful and challenging.

‘Head Over Heart’ addresses the trigger words “naive” and “gullible” while celebrating the importance of maintaining a positive outlook, even in the face of adversity. It is Mistyque’s hope that her audience walks away from this project feeling “deeply understood.”

Must Listens: Go Crazy